Mount Rainier has the greatest single-peak glacial system in the United States. Glaciers radiate from the summit and slopes of the 14,411-foot-high volcano. The park, established on March 2, 1899, contains vast expanses of pristine old-growth forests, subalpine flower meadows, spectacular alpine scenery, and great opportunities for stimulating outdoor activities. First recorded by Captain George Vancouver while mapping Puget Sound in 1792, Mount Rainier National Park is the fifth oldest national park in the United States.

Mount Rainier is an episodically active volcano. The volcano began to grow between 500,000 and 1 million years ago. The slopes of lava flows on opposite sides of the mountain probably projected more than 1,000 feet above the present summit. Explosions and landslides likely removed the upper portion of the cone. The current summit, Columbia Crest, lies at 14,411 feet above sea level, on the rim of the most recent lava cone.

The park encompasses 378 square miles, or 235,612.5 acres. Park elevations range from 1,880 feet at the Carbon River rain forest (northwest corner of the park) to 14,411 feet at the summit.

Use the menu below to quickly access information on this park:

General Information

Visitation

Annual visitation exceeds 2 million visitors, with the majority of visitors coming to the park from May to October. During this peak period, the best time to visit the park is Monday through Friday, to avoid large crowds that arrive early on sunny summer weekends. Parking lots at the most popular areas, such as Paradise and Sunrise, are generally full before noon on weekends.

Location

Mount Rainier is located in west central Washington, approximately 1 to 2 hours driving time from Seattle, Tacoma, and Yakima, Washington, and Portland, Oregon. The Nisqually Entrance, located on the southwest side of the park on State Route 706, is open year-round. Other park roads are open only during the summer months. Opening and closing dates vary depending on snow conditions.

Address

Mount Rainier National Park
Tahoma Woods, Star Route
Ashford, WA 98304-9751

Telephone

(360) 569-2211 (automated information menu)
Longmire Museum & Information Center: Extention 3314
Paradise Visitor Center: Extension 2328 (limited winter hours)
Ohanapecosh Visitor Center: Extension 2352 (summer only)
Sunrise Visitor Center: Extension 2357 (summer only)

Operating Hours And Seasons

All locations and facilities in Mount Rainier National Park are open from July 1 through Labor Day. Most locations are accessible from Memorial Day into early October. Between November or December into May, snow limits vehicle access to the 18 miles of road between the Nisqually Entrance and Paradise (southwest entrance via State Routes 7 and 706). The Stevens Canyon road closes when snowfall limits safe passage.

Climate & Recommended Clothing

Mount Rainier, 14,411 feet high, is often said to create its own weather. It reaches into the atmosphere and interrupts the flow of moist maritime air masses from the Pacific Ocean resulting in great amounts of rain and snowfall. The heaviest precipitation occurs between October and early May. During the winter of 1971-1972, 1,122 inches of snow fell at the Paradise weather station on Mount Rainier (elevation 5,400 feet), which was a world record. Average summer temperatures can range from the upper 30s to mid-70s. Warm clothing, a hat, rain gear, sun glasses and sturdy footwear is recommended.

Directions

Mount Rainier is accessible from several directions via Interstate-5, U.S. Highway 12, and State Routes 7, 706, 123, 410, and 165, depending on where travelers originate and the time of year.

Transportation

The park is located in west central Washington, within an easy drive of Seattle, Tacoma, and Portland. See the map for route numbers. The Nisqually entrance (southwest corner) is open year-round. Travelers coming from east of the Cascades may enter the park directly during the summer, but these eastern mountain passes are closed in winter. To reach the Carbon River area of the park (northwest corner), take Washington 165 (not shown on map) from Buckley. Shortly after passing through Wilkeson, the road forks, with the Carbon River entrance and Ipsut Creek to the left and Mowich Lake to the right. The Ipsut Creek Campground is accessible by foot or bicycle via the 5-mile road/trail to the campground. Bicycles are not allowed on park trails.

Services which provide transportation to and from Mount Rainier National Park:

Grayline Bus Service 800-426-7532; 206-626-5208.

Bus service from downtown Seattle. Call for rates and reservations.

Rainier Overland 360-569-0851

Operates shuttles by reservation between Sea-Tac Airport, Ashford, and points within Mount Rainier National Park. Call for rates and reservations.

Rainier Shuttle 360-569-2331

Operates scheduled shuttles between Sea-Tac Airport and Paradise, with stops in Ashford, from May 15 to October 1.

Advance reservations are required. Call for rates and reservations.

International airports are located in Portland and Seattle/Tacoma with scheduled flights by national and regional carriers. Amtrak provides rail service on both north-south (stops are Centralia, Tacoma, and Seattle) and east-west routes (stops are Yakima, Ellensburg, East Auburn, and Seattle). Rental cars are available in Seattle, Tacoma, Yakima, and Portland. Greyhound/Trailways provides bus service to major towns and cities. Gray Line runs buses to the park from mid-spring to mid-fall from Tacoma and Seattle. Shuttle service is available from Seattle to the park by Rainier Express and Rainier Overland.

Bicyclists will find that there is little room to maneuver on park roads, which are narrow and winding. They are not allowed on trails within the park. Make sure you're in shape - gains in elevation range from 1,700 feet to 6,400 feet.

The use of saddle and pack stock is permitted on more than 100 miles of trails. Visitors should check with a ranger about specific regulations and areas of use.

Entrance Fees

Single person entry: $5

Entry into Mount Rainier National Park by foot, bicycles, or motorcycle for seven days.

Single vehicle entry: $10

Valid at Mount Rainier National Park for 7 days.

Mount Rainier National Park Pass: $20

Valid at Mount Rainier National Park for 1 year from month of purchase.

Golden Eagle Passport

The Golden Eagle Passport is an entrance pass to any national park, monument, historical site, recreation area, and national wildlife refuge that charges an entrance fee. It is a great convenience for those who plan on visiting several different areas that charge special fees. It is valid for one year from the purchase date. A Golden Eagle Passport may be purchased for $50 at any National Park Service entrance fee area or by mail. To order by mail, send check or money order (no cash, please) to:

National Park Service
1100 Ohio Drive, SW
Room 138
Washington, DC 20242
Attention: Golden Eagle Passport

Where entry is by private vehicle, the Golden Eagle Passport will admit the passholder as well as any passengers. Where entry by private vehicle is not possible, the pass will admit the passholder, spouse, children and parents.

The Golden Eagle Passport will not reduce use fees, such as those for camping, swimming, parking, boat launching, or cave tours. It covers entrance fees only.

Golden Age Passport

The Golden Age Passport is a lifetime entrance pass for those United States residents 62 years or older. These may be purchased at any National Park Service entrance fee area for a one-time processing fee of $10. The Golden Age Passport cannot be purchased by mail or telephone. Proof of age and citizenship or permanent residence must be shown at the time of purchase.

The Golden Age Passport will admit the passholder and any passengers in a private vehicle. When entrance is not via private vehicle, the pass will admit the passholder as well as children, spouse, and parents.

The Golden Age Pass grants a 50% discount to the holder on any federal use fees charged for things such as camping, swimming, parking, boat launching, or tours. It does not, however, reduce the price of special recreation permit fees or fees for concessions.

Golden Access Passport

The Golden Access Passport is a free entrance pass to any national park, monument, historic site, recreation area, and national wildlife refuge for those who are blind or permanently disabled. The Golden Access passport may be obtained at any National Park Service entrance fee area. Proof of a medically determined disability and eligibility for receiving benefits under federal law is necessary at purchase.

The Golden Access Passport will admit the passholder and any passengers in a private vehicle. Where entrance is not by vehicle, the pass will admit the passholder, spouse, children and parents.

The Golden Access Passport also provides a 50% discount on any federal use fees charged for services and facilities. It does not cover special recreation permit fees or fees charged for concessions.

All passes described above are non-transferable.

Food & Supplies

Limited camping supplies are available at the National Park Inn at Longmire and Sunrise Lodge. Obtain supplies in the communities surrounding the park.

Climbers

Mount Rainier, the most heavily glaciated peak in the contiguous United States, offers an exciting challenge to the mountaineer who is totally prepared, but can be lethal for those who are inexperienced or unprepared.

Each year more than 4,500 people from around the world successfully climb to the 14,411-foot summit of Mount Rainier. Climbers need to be in top physical condition and well equipped. The weather is unpredictable at these elevations and climbing to the summit is extremely strenuous and dangerous due to falling rock and crevasses. Mount Rainier has a vertical elevation gain of more than 9,000 feet over a distance of 8 or more miles from the highest trailheads. Climbers should be experienced in glacier travel and mountaineering skills or travel with park-licensed guides.

Climbers must register with a park ranger before climbing, and checkout upon returning. Solo climbing requires advance written approval by the park Superintendent. Allow up to two weeks for approval process. The address is: Park Superintendent, Mount Rainier National Park, Tahoma Woods Star Route, Ashford, WA 98304.

Climbers must pay $15 for each person attempting a summit climb, or purchase a $25 annual pass.

Guided summit climbs and one-day climbing schools are conducted by Rainier Mountaineering, Inc. For more information write to: Rainier Mountaineering, Inc., 535 Dock Street, Suite 209, Tacoma, WA 98402, or call 206-627-6242.

Basic Visit Recommendations:

Highlights

Longmire Historic District, inside the southwest corner of the park. Open year-round.

Paradise, located at 5,400 feet on the south side of Mount Rainier. Open year-round, daylight hours only during the winter months.

Ohanapecosh, located inside the southeast corner of the park. Open summers only.

Sunrise, located at 6,400 feet on the east side of the Mountain. Open summers only.

Visitation is always highest on summer weekends. Campgrounds and Inns may fill to capacity on sunny summer weekends and holidays, and parking will be difficult to find at Paradise on any sunny summer day. Schedule your summer visit on weekdays, and call for reservations at the Inns. Campsites are available on first-come, first-served basis.

Watching the Weather

May, September and October, while cooler and more prone to rain or snow, offer quieter roads and trails, and fewer visitors. Expect snowy road conditions and possible restrictions from November through May.

Winter visitors should be prepared for snowy conditions and icy roads. Check your tires before you visit. All-season radials, snow tires, or chains are often required to drive to Paradise during the winter months.

No gasoline is available inside the park, so fill your tank before you arrive.

Visitor Impacts:

Most park roads are closed from October and November until late May due to snowfall. Temporary closure of the Nisqually to Paradise road (southwest entrance), which is open year-round, may occur when heavy snowfall occurs and avalanche conditions become dangerous. In winter, vehicles should be equipped with all season tires, and carry tire chains. Recorded road and weather condition messages can be heard by dialing (360) 569-2211.

Nearby Visitor Attractions:

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, Amboy, WA
Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, Eatonville, WA
Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad, Elbe, WA
Crystal Mountain Ski Resort, White Pass Ski Resort; Olympic National Park, Port Angeles, WA
North Cascades National Park, Sedro Woolley, WA
Fort Clatsop National Memorial, Astoria, OR
Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Vancouver, WA.

Additional Information:

Publications

Publications, maps, slides, posters, videos, and other informational materials can be obtained by writing to Mount Rainier National Park, Attn: Northwest Interpretive Association, Longmire, WA 98397, or by calling 360-569-2211, ext. 3320.

Non-Profit Organization

The Mount Rainier, North Cascades & Olympic Fund is a non-profit organization established to create supportive partnerships with public and private entities to secure funding and volunteer support for specific projects within the three parks. For information on the Fund, write to: Mount Rainier, North Cascades & Olympic Fund, 1221 Second Avenue, Suite 350, Seattle, WA 98101, or call 206-621-6565.

Planning Your Trip

Before leaving home consider whether your travel will occur in the summer (June through September) or winter. Calendar dates and snow depths affect campsite options. Use a topographic map or hiking guide to help you choose your destination and route. Use this planning map to pick your campsites. When selecting your route, consider the mileage and elevation gain involved. Be sure each member of your party is prepared for the choices you make. Please note the group-size restrictions for any campground you consider. Be flexible and have a second choice for your wilderness site(s). If solitude or getting your first-choice campsite is important, consider that July and August are the busiest months. Notify someone of your plans and expected return date, so that if you are overdue, it will be reported to rangers promptly. Contact the park regarding current conditions/closures.

Facilities & Opportunities

Visitor centers, hiking trails, lodging, mountain climbing, camping, wildflower displays, backcountry camping, and picnic areas are located throughout the park.

Longmire Museum - open year-round

Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center - Paradise - open daily mid-April into October (weekends and holiday periods only October-April)

Ohanapecosh Visitor Center - open late May into October

Sunrise Visitor Center - open late June into September

Hiking

The day hiking season at Mount Rainier National Park normally extends from early July through early October, when the high country should be relatively free of snow at elevations below 6,000 feet. Trails at lower elevations may open earlier and remain open longer. Variations in weather are occasionally responsible for later opening of the high trails as well as earlier closing. For further information see the Trails section or contact the National Park.

Weather

The weather in the Pacific Northwest is usually best from mid-May through mid-September. However, snow will remain at the 5,000 to 8,000 feet elevation well into mid-July.

The average afternoon summer temperature recorded at Longmire is in the mid-70s with night temperatures ranging in the upper 40s. At Paradise, the average afternoon summer temperature is in the mid-60s with night temperatures in the lower 40s. Frost and slightly below freezing temperatures will occasionally occur at elevations above 5,000 feet, even during the warmest summer months. The temperature at most campgrounds can be expected to range between those recorded at Paradise and Longmire. The number of clear days begins to increase during May and reaches a peak during July and August. A few thunderstorms are reported each year. The wind is usually light during the summer.

Snow usually begins accumulating in late October at Paradise and reaches a depth of 14 to 16 feet or more by March or April. Paradise can receive 15 to 25 inches of snow a day. Snow will remain at Paradise until after July 1. The snow generally reaches a depth of 4 feet or more in the Longmire area and remains there until early May. Most of the snow-cover below 7,500 feet melts during August, with the exception of snow on the lower glaciers, which may not melt.

Water

Water is available at most backcountry campsites. Water can usually be found along the trails, but by August you may want to carry extra water for use during the day, as a few stretches of trail may be without water. Water not taken from a piped water system should be treated for giardia and the possibility of water-borne diseases. Please note that at higher elevations dehydration occurs quickly and consumption of water should be increased.

Equipment

When packing clothing for summer hiking in the Pacific Northwest, include layers of wicking synthetic fiber garments or wool. Remember that freezing temperatures are possible in the high country any night of the year, so pack accordingly. Although the summer months are drier than the rest of the year, rain gear is highly advisable, as are sturdy hiking boots. Always carry the 10 essentials for safe wilderness hiking:

1. Map of the area
2. Compass (Don't forget the magnetic declination for the area.)
3. Flashlight or headlamp, with spare bulb and extra batteries
4. Extra food
5. Extra clothing, including emergency shelter such as a "space blanket", "tube tent" or bivouac sack
6. Sunglasses and sunscreen
7. First aid kit
8. Pocket knife
9. Matches in a waterproof container
10. Fire starter. (Resort to a fire only in emergencies. A candle can serve several uses, including lighting a fire without using all your matches.)

Rental hiking equipment is not available inside the park, but may be obtained at sporting goods stores such as Wilderness Mountain Sports or REI in the greater Seattle/Tacoma area. Limited backpacking supplies can be purchased in Ashford, Enumclaw, and Packwood. A greater selection can be found in Seattle and Tacoma.

Backcountry Permits:

Permits are required year-round for all overnight camping outside auto campgrounds. The new Wilderness Permit Fee Program will be in effect from June 1 through September 30. Quotas are enforced throughout much of the backcountry in order to protect sensitive areas from overuse. Backpackers may obtain their wilderness permits and pay their fees at the following sites: Longmire and White River Wilderness Information Centers, Wilkeson Ranger Station (the red caboose), and the Paradise Ranger Station. The fee will be $10 for the wilderness permit, plus $5 for each person in the party, regardless of age. For that one total payment, a backpacking party may camp for up to 14 days in the parks wilderness. A $40 annual wilderness permit will also be available. The annual permit will be issued to any one person and will cover the $10 permit fee as well as the $5 charge for that person. Campsites are on a first-come, first-served basis. Permits are available 24 hours in advance of your departure.

Wildlife

Black-tail deer, black bears, elk, mountain goats, marmots, and many other animals make their homes in Mount Rainier National Park. If you see these animals, do not approach them and do not feed them! Some of the designated wilderness campsites are equipped with poles for hanging food. Take a rope or strong cord with you and hang all food and toiletries whenever possible. Bears, mice, and squirrels are threats to your food and gear.

Pets

Dogs, cats and other pets are not permitted away from roads and parking lots. Pets are not permitted in the backcountry, except on the Pacific Crest Trail when on a leash.

Fishing

The park fishing season follows the same dates as the Washington fishing season. No fishing license is required. Check at a ranger station or visitor center for a copy of the park's fishing regulations.

Stock Use

Stock is permitted on about 100 miles of trails within the park. Check with a visitor center for information about trails and campsites accessible to stock users, and for related regulations.

Wonderland Trail

The Wonderland Trail encircles Mount Rainier, covering 93 miles. This trail crosses alpine meadows, glacial streams and mountain passes, and penetrates valley forests, reaching a maximum elevation of 6,500 feet at Panhandle Gap. It is recommended that you plan at least 10 days to hike the Wonderland Trail.

Summit Climbing

Persons climbing above 10,000 feet or on glaciers must register with a park ranger before and after the trip. Climbing services are available for both the Camp Muir and Camp Schurman sides of Mt. Rainier, from May to October. A $15 climbing permit is required.

Camping

Mount Rainier National Park has six auto campgrounds providing almost 600 sites. These campgrounds are all open for your stay by the end of June through mid-September. Only one campground, Sunshine Point, is open for auto camping year-round. The other five campgrounds close in September and October, depending upon location and weather. Backcountry camping is permitted through the park year-round by permit only. Sites at two of the six campgrounds are issued by reservation only from July 1 through Labor Day.

Camping must be done within the design capacity of each site with a maximum of six persons per site unless the camping party is immediate family. Ask a ranger about parking extra vehicles. Camping is limited to no more than 14 days during July and August. A maximum of two tents are permitted at each site

Length of Stay

A 14-day camping limitation applies to all camping during July and August.

Fires

Keep fires small and within the closed grating provided, and leave no trash in the grate. Do not leave fires unattended. To preserve the integrity of the forest, collection of wood is not permitted. Leaving this material in place to decompose creates nourishment for the trees and preserves the quality of the forest. Firewood may be purchased from private wood concessionaires at the Cougar Rock, Ohanapecosh, and White River Campgrounds, or you may bring your own.

Pets

Dogs, cats and other pets must be caged, on a leash, or otherwise under physical restraint at all times. Pets may not be left unattended. Pets are not permitted in amphitheaters, buildings, on trails, or in vegetated areas. They are permitted only in parking lots and roads open to vehicles.

Vehicles

All vehicles (cars, trucks, RVs, tent-trailers, and utility trailers) must be parked on the gravel or paved area of your site and not beyond the barriers. If you are leaving your vehicle for more than 24 hours and you are staying within the park, report your intentions to the campground ranger so it will not be considered abandoned property. No utilities or connections of any kind are available. A $4 fee is charged for additional vehicle parking.

Bicycles, Motorbikes, Roller skates, and Skateboards

Bicycles and motorbikes may be operated in the campground on roadways only, in the same direction of travel as other vehicles. Motorcycles must be licensed for street use and drivers must have an operators license. Travel on trails with bicycles or motorbikes are not permitted. The use of skateboards and roller skates is not permitted in the park.

Natural features

To preserve the natural features of the park, driving nails into trees and ditches around tents are not permitted. For your safety, do not feed animals - it may result in your injury. Human food can cause digestive problems and may result in their death. Picking or cutting flowers, gathering or digging plants and trees are not permitted.

Sanitation

To ensure adequate sanitation, use the restrooms. Your RVs sink drains must empty into containers and must be emptied into the service sink or toilets only. Do not use water fountains or spigots for cleaning purposes. Dump stations for RVs are located at the Cougar Rock and Ohanapecosh Campgrounds and are available for your use at no cost.

Quiet Hours

Quiet hours must be observed between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Gasoline generators may be used only between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Unreasonable noise is not permitted at any time. Show respect for others during quiet hours.

Thefts

Prevent thefts and protect your valuables by not leaving valuables in your vehicle. Report suspicious persons or vehicles to a ranger.

Group Camping

Group camping is permitted in some backcountry wilderness campsites and in the Cougar Rock campground. Backcountry wilderness group campsites require a backcountry permit and are only available on a first-come, first-served basis. Auto campground group sites must be reserved in advance through the National Park Reservation Service at 1-800-365-CAMP.

Auto campground group sites are designed for tent camping only, with several fireplaces at each site. Water is available from central taps and comfort stations are located nearby. Because campground-parking space is limited, it may be necessary to make arrangements with the campground ranger for additional parking space. Recreation vehicles and trailers cannot be accommodated at group sites.

Cougar Rock campground is located in the southwest corner of the park, 8 miles inside the Nisqually Entrance, and has five group sites available. Each site can accommodate 15 to 30 people. Parking space is limited to six to eight cars per group site.

Winter Camping:

Mount Rainier National Park is a popular place to enjoy winter camping. The mountain receives abundant snowfall, and the scenery is spectacular. Snows usually begin in earnest in late October or early November and the snow pack lasts well into June.

Before Leaving Home:

Most essentials for your winter camping trip are not available in the park, so make sure you are totally prepared before leaving home. Is your car in good working order and equipped with tire chains that fit? Do you have enough food and fuel if weather forces you to stay out an extra night? Does everyone in the group have the proper clothing and camping gear? Have you tested your stove? Do you have good map and compass and know how to use them? A single critical item overlooked at home could make the difference between a memorable visit and an unpleasant experience you'd like to forget.

En route To Camp:

Most winter camping in the park is done in the Paradise area (elevation 5,400 feet), since road access there is maintained daily (weather permitting) by snowplows. The road to Paradise closes at Longmire daily at 4:30 p.m. for safety concerns and to facilitate plowing. It reopens the next morning, usually between 8 and 11 a.m., depending on weather and snow conditions. So plan your trip to arrive at Longmire prior to 4:30 p.m. If you camp anywhere above Longmire, do not travel on the road the next day until you have received clearance from a ranger or you definitely know that the road had been opened to the public. Snowplows plow the center of the road in the morning and are not expecting any traffic on the road.

Obey all speed limits and traction device signs in the park - roads are steep, curvy, and often covered with snow and ice. Failure to conform to posted signs will result in a traffic citation. If you are unsure if you have proper snow tires, ask a ranger for assistance. All vehicles should be equipped with tire chains that have been checked for proper fit. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and chains may be required to go downhill even though they were not required earlier. If you do need to chain up, do not stop in the roadway - use pullouts where you'll be safe. Carry a good shovel in your car too - after one or two nights out camping, you may have to dig your car out of a snowdrift!

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History

Established on March 2, 1899, for its mountain meadows and impressive glaciers, Mount Rainier is the fifth oldest national park in the United States. The park encompasses 235,612 acres, where about two million people visit each year to stroll through flower-strewn meadows, view and learn about the biggest glacial system in the lower 48 states, discover verdant rainforest, and pit their strength and skills against nature in a high elevation climb.

For nearly 100 years, people have hiked and camped in the backcountry of Mount Rainier National Park. In the time since, and even before the dedication of the park in 1899, hiking enthusiasts and park employees have built, maintained, and utilized hundreds of miles of trails around the mountain. However, by 1973, these trails and park natural resources were deteriorating so rapidly that the National Park Service implemented a Backcountry Use and Operation Plan for Mount Rainier. This plan allowed for a permit system to limit the number of users in the backcountry, thus creating a more solitary experience for the campers, while greatly diminishing the impact on the natural environment.

In 1988, 228,480 acres, or 97 percent of Mount Rainier National Park, were designated Wilderness by Public Law 100-668 (The Washington Wilderness Act). The Wilderness Management Plan divided the parks wilderness into three zones: trailside, cross-country, and alpine. Along with other limitations, maximum capacities have been placed on the number of people in any one area, and sections of the park have been designated as day-use only.

Familiarizing yourself with all of the parks regulations will help minimize resource damage and insure a safe and memorable wilderness experience for you and others for years to come.

Introduction to Cultural Resources of Mount Rainier National Park

Culture is broadly defined as a group of people linked together by shared values, beliefs, and historic associations, together with the group's social institutions and physical objects necessary to the operation of the institution. Consequently, the definition of cultural resources is fluid. It changes with social attitudes and new discoveries. Properties that may not have been considered significant just a few years ago, such as relics of the Cold War, assume new meaning in the shadow of historic events. Other resources have only recently been recognized as important symbols to other cultures, such as Native American religious sites. Accordingly, the definition of cultural resources must be broad and inclusive, allowing for different interests and interpretations. Basically, cultural resources can include any real or personal property, record, or way of life.

Cultural resources are grouped into five general categories: prehistoric and historic archeological resources, ethnographic resources, natural and historic collections, historic structures, and cultural landscapes. The disciplines of cultural anthropology, archeology, conservation, history, architecture, and landscape architecture all contribute to the research and technical knowledge and skills required understanding and managing these resources.

Why are cultural resources important to Mount Rainier? America's fifth oldest national park has a long history of human activities within its boundaries. While few archeological sites have been found in the park to date, the area was used on a seasonal basis by lowland Native American tribes for hunting and gathering, as well as spiritual and ceremonial events. More recently, the turn of the 20th century brought local exploration, spa development, extensive climbing, and infrastructure development. All of these elements have contributed to produce a rich and diverse park history. Consequently, the cultural resources range in scale and complexity from a historic collection of plant specimens that predate the formation of the park, to a National Historic Landmark district that represents the best collection of "rustic" architecture in today's national park system.

There is a need for interdisciplinary approaches and solutions to cultural resources management. Historic research provides the context for evaluating the significance of historic structures, sites, and landscapes. Archeological and ethnographic data illuminate landscape patterns and features. Collection management procedures and policies protect and preserve the objects and records critical to understanding and researching these resources.

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Reservation Information

Reservations

Reservations are accepted for group campsites only at Cougar Rock auto campgrounds, up to 90 days prior to the first night of camping. To make reservations for groups of 12 or more people, call (360) 569-2211, ext. 3301. All other campsites are on a first-come, first-served basis.

Campground Reservations (800) 365-CAMP (2267)

Permits

Summit climbing permits include a $15 per person climbing fee ($25 annual fee for multiple climbs).

Wilderness permits are required for overnight stays in the backcountry.

Special Use Permits, Filming Permits and Commercial Use Permits are handled on an individual basis. For additional information concerning these permits, call 360-569-2211.

Planning Your Trip

Before leaving home consider whether your travel will occur in summer (June through September) or winter (October through May). Dates and snow depths affect campsite options. Obtain a topographic map or hiking guide to help you choose your destination and route, and use this product to pick your campsites. When selecting your route, consider the mileage and elevation gain involved. Be sure each member of your party is prepared for the choices you make. Please note the group-size restrictions for any campsite you consider. Be flexible and have a second choice. If solitude or getting your first-choice campsite is important, keep in mind that July and August are the busiest months. Notify someone of your plans and expected return date, so that if youre overdue, it will be reported to rangers promptly. Contact the park regarding current conditions/closures.

Choosing and reserving a Campsite

Reservations are required for Cougar Rock and Ohanapecosh campgrounds July 1 through Labor Day. There is a $14 fee per day. To reserve a campsite at either location, contact the National Park Reservation Service (operated by Biospherics in Beltsville, MD) starting April 15.

Call 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. PST:

1-800-365-CAMP (2267), within USA
1-888-530-9796 TDD
1-301-722-1257 International

Or write:

National Park Reservation Service
P.O. Box 1600
Cumberland, MD 21502

You can also book your reservation via computer terminals located at Cougar Rock Campground and Ohanapecosh Ranger Station. Reservations are payable by VISA, MasterCard, Discover, and check or money order.

NPRS Customer Service:

1-800-388-2733

Cancellation Policy: All changes of a reservation will be considered a cancellation and charged a $12.50 cancellation fee. Cancellations made on the day of arrival will be charged an additional one night camping fee.

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